The Grassroots Podcast

Hosted by Dana Howe

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Aug 2025

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About the show

Welcome to The Grassroots Podcast where we talk outdoor industry business, independent outdoor specialty retailers, and brands. Join Grassroots Vice President, Dana Howe, as she brings you engaging and insightful conversations with outdoor industry retail leaders, brand leaders, and subject matter experts.

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16 recent

August 26, 202555 min

Episode #15: The Public Lands Policy Problem: Advocacy, Economy, and the Future of Outdoor Access

On this episode of The Grassroots Podcast, Grassroots Vice President and host, Dana Howe explores the complex world of public lands policy with Rebecca Gillis from The Conservation Alliance and Jake Dickerson, co-owner of Wild Iris Mountain Sports. This conversation examines how political pressures are shaping the outdoor recreation economy, what business-friendly public lands policy could look like, and how the outdoor industry can stay engaged in protecting access.Tune in to discover how public lands policy affects everyone from Main Street retailers to weekend adventurers and what we can all do to ensure these shared treasures remain accessible for generations to come.Learn more & follow our guests:Jake Dickerson:www.wildirisclimbing.comWild Iris Mountain Sports on instagram: @wildirismtnJake on LinkedIn Jake on instagram: @thefancy123Rebecca Gillis:https://conservationalliance.com/TCA on instagram: @conservationallianceRebecca on LinkedInTCA on LinkedInNews & Resources:Wyoming Climbers Alliance Wyoming Climbers Alliance instagram: @wyoclimbersLander, WY Economic Impact Study Join The Conservation Alliance's Brands for Public Lands coalition here: https://conservationalliance.com/brands-for-public-lands/ How TCA and Brands for Public Lands Helped Save Millions of Acres of Public Lands (TCA) Eroding protections for public lands (Reuters)Next Interior newsletter, for updates on happenings within the U.S. Department of Interior, stay updated here: Next Interior News

May 1, 2025Episode 1441 min

Episode #14: The Future is Bright

In this episode of the Grassroots Podcast, host Dana Howe is joined by Hannah Mathews, of the Futurists Project, and Peyton Short, a recent Futurists grad. Together, we dive into how the Futurists Project is reshaping professional development in the outdoor industry by fostering purpose-driven leadership, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration.We explore the importance of including small business retailers in these conversations, the “ah-ha” moments that happen when retailers and brands come together, and how mentorship is planting passionate specialty retail advocates throughout the outdoor industry. Plus, we share how you can support the next generation of leaders through scholarships, mentorship, and more.Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and ways to get involved.Learn more & follow our guests:Guest Info: Peyton Short on LinkedInHannah Mathews on LinkedInLinks & Show Resources:Donate to the Skip Yowell Scholarship FundFuturists Project Website & Program InfoNonprofit Partnership Playbook

February 26, 2025Episode 1327 min

Episode #13: The Good Sales Rep

In this episode, we take a deeper dive into the featured story from our recent Grassroots Stories issue, "The Good Sales Rep," with Kurt "The General" Smith, owner of Top Gun Sales Agency. Kurt shares his journey from professional climber to seasoned sales rep, his insights on how the industry and his role has evolved, and the keys to success as a sales rep in today's market. We’ll also discuss the critical role of sales reps in supporting specialty retailers and brands, and why mentoring the next generation of reps is crucial.Follow Kurt's rep & family travels:@generalsmith on InstagramTop Gun Sales Brands:EvolvSalewaBioliteLifestrawSterling RopeNemo EquipmentWild CountryTeren Designs

October 29, 2024Episode 1221 min

Episode #12: Get Ready for Connect - Your Guide to Making the Most of Kansas City!

On this episode of The Grassroots Podcast, Host Dana Howe, dives into everything you need to know for Connect November 10-14, 2024 in Kansas City. Tune in as the Grassroots Events Team, Maggie and Chelsea, join Dana to cover the essentials: from attendance stats and appointment schedules to prep tips for productive business meetings, both for retailers and brands. Discover the extracurriculars to recharge your day, and new brand introductions at Discovery Marketplace. Plus, get hot tips from Maggie, Dana, and Chelsea on maximizing your time in KC! Key Dates for Fall 2024 Grassroots Connect November 9th - Grassroots Retail Member Welcome Party November 10th - Education Day, Discovery Marketplace & Exhibitor Move-In November 11-14 - Grassroots Connect Links & Citations: Schedules & Registration: ⁠connectapp.grassrootsoutdoors.com/login⁠ All other show relation information: ⁠connect.grassrootsoutdoors.com⁠ Restaurant Recommendations: ⁠La Bodega⁠ ⁠Mildred's⁠ ⁠Extra Virgin⁠ ⁠The Westside Local⁠ Questions? Follow Up with our guests: Dana Howe - dana@grassrootsoutdoors.com Chelsea Flynn - chelsea@grassrootsoutdoors.com Maggie Perrault - maggie@grassrootsoutdoors.com

October 23, 202451 min

Episode #11: Responsible Sustainable Retail

In this episode of the Grassroots Podcast, host Dana Howe dives into responsible business practices and sustainability in outdoor retail with Bryan Wolf from Roads Rivers and Trails (RRT) and Chris Enlow from Future Scapes Consulting. We explore RRT's ongoing journey to become a BCorp and their new Responsible Inventory Initiative. Chris offers practical advice for retailers, starting with evaluating where you stand, to taking meaningful baby steps to address responsible business practices and sustainability. If you're a retailer seeking actionable steps, this episode is for you! Tune in to discover how these leaders are navigating the path towards responsible retail and learn how you can too. Guest Info: Bryan Wolf: rrt@roadsriversandtrails.com roadsriversandtrails.com Chris Enlow: www.linkedin.com/in/chrisenlow/ www.futurescapes.co info@futurescapes.co Sources: https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/programs-and-tools/b-impact-assessment/ https://www.rei.com/dam/18549043_product_impact_standards.pdf

May 30, 202440 min

Episode #10, Part 2: Cascade Designs & Patagonia Field Trips with Fletcher & Sven

In part 2 of Episode 10, we dive deep into one of our organization's core values: learning and collaboration. One of the ways we champion this value is through our highly anticipated in-person Education Day, held annually the day before Connect kicks off. In Reno, the Connect Education Day, held on Sunday, June 9th June 9th, will feature enriching on-site workshop options at the Peppermill and we're excited to introduce for the first time, off-site Field Trips to partner brands in the Reno area; Cascade Designs and Patagonia. These VIP experiences have proven to be a massive hit, with all spots fully booked in record time! Over 100 enthusiastic retailers are set to get a behind-the-scenes look at Cascade Designs and Patagonia. In this episode, we're honored to have Fletcher Andrews from Cascade Designs and Sven Shiers from Patagonia, veterans of over 20 years at their companies, who tell us what to expect on the Field Trips. Plus Sven will share tips for enjoying the Reno-Tahoe area, including local food, bev, and outdoor recommendations.

May 20, 2024Episode 1038 min

Episode #10, Part 1: Mayor Dave Polivy, Tahoe Mountain Sports & Local Intel

In this episode, we dive into the world of outdoor specialty retail and civic engagement with Dave Polivy, the founder of Tahoe Mountain Sports and Mayor of Truckee, CA. Dave shares his journey of founding Tahoe Mountain Sports, evolving from an exclusive e-commerce business to now two thriving brick-and-mortar stores. Discover what influenced this transition and how it reshaped his business. We'll also explore Dave's role as Mayor of Truckee. Learn about his path to civic engagement, the groundbreaking work he's done for the town, and how his leadership impacts both his community and business. Finally, as we gear up for Grassroots Connect in Reno, Dave offers local intel on Truckee, and the Reno-Tahoe area. Whether you're attending Connect or just tuning in for some inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom from the trenches from a true grassroots leader.

March 27, 2024Episode 931 min

Episode #9: The Fight for Fair Fees: Small businesses & credit card processing

Credit card processing fees (swipe fees) are typically ranked in Grassroots Retailer's top 4 expenses, just behind cost of goods sold, payroll, rent/mortgage. In fact, swipe fees cost American businesses approximately $165 billion annually. Swipe fees are also an expense where retailers have no recourse or negotiating power. In this episode, hear how one retailer, Sarah McDonald of Out There Outfitters, stepped up to work with the National Retail Federation to help pass legislation introducing reforms that have the potential to save American businesses and consumers an estimated $15 billion per year. In this episode, you will also learn how YOU too can get engaged and support the Fight for Fair Fees! Episode Resources & Citations: Merchants Payments Coalition: Stand Up for Main Street How small businesses are fighting inflated credit card swipe fees, CNBC NRF Fed Up with Fees NRF Credit Card Competition Act Voter Voice - Contact your member of congress and ask them to support the CCCA Learn more & follow our guest: Sarah McDonald on LinkedIn Out There Outfitters, Wayne, PA Out There Outfitters on Instagram Out There Outfitters on Facebook

February 20, 2024Episode 840 min

Episode #8: 2Pfast, 2Furious: Pfas & the Industry in 2024

Join Dana Howe and Gabe Maier as they dive back into the hot topic of Pfas in the Outdoor Industry. Together with expert guest James Pollack, they expand on the basics covered in Episode #3, exploring what retailers need to know and do to navigate the Pfas landscape in 2024 and beyond. From understanding the implications for inventory to gearing up for informed customer interactions, this episode equips listeners with actionable insights. Tune in for the latest updates on Pfas and its impact on the industry. Explore more about our guest: James Pollack: www.martenlaw.com/our-people/james-b-pollack Follow James on LinkedIn Pfas Reference Guide for Retailers & Brands

October 27, 2023Episode 743 min

BONUS Episode: Industry Retail & Sales Pros Talk Meeting Prep with Dana Davis & Dana Caraway

In this exclusive October bonus episode, Dana Howe sits down with industry experts Dana Caraway and Dana Davis to dive into the essentials of meeting preparation as we step into a new buying, selling, and planning cycle. Whether you're a retailer gearing up for a buying event, a sales pro hitting the road for the season, or a brand leader eager for insights into how retailers approach business meetings, this episode is your go-to resource. Gain valuable insights from two seasoned professionals with decades of experience. Explore more about our guests: Summit Hut: https://www.summithut.com/ Caraway & Co.: https://carawayandco.com/ Follow on Instagram: @carawayandco and @summithuttucson